Find a Specialist

A. Merrylees Dersch, MD, is a pediatric ophthalmologist at Phoenix Children’s who cares for infants, children and teens with both routine and complex eye conditions. She provides specialized evaluation and treatment for retinoblastoma, strabismus and amblyopia, as well as vision screening and surgical care for pediatric cataracts. Dr. Dersch works closely with families, neonatology teams and pediatric subspecialists to coordinate care, explain options clearly and make hospital visits easier for young patients. Dr. Dersch earned her medical degree from Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, completed ophthalmology residency at the University of Arizona, and pursued fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus at The Hospital for Sick Children and the University of Toronto. She is active in professional societies and has published in peer-reviewed journals. Her clinical approach centers on safety, access and equity so every family feels heard and supported throughout treatment.

Dr. Jamila G. Hiasat is a pediatric ophthalmologist and strabismus specialist who provides comprehensive medical and surgical care for children. She treats pediatric cataracts, corneal disease in children, strabismus, and eye problems related to prematurity, and partners closely with families to support clear, comfortable vision at every stage. Patients value her thoughtful explanations and her commitment to child-friendly, team-based care. Dr. Hiasat trained in ophthalmology at the University of Jordan, completed fellowship in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus at UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, and has served in academic roles focused on research and resident education. Recognized internationally for exam performance by the International Council of Ophthalmology, she remains active in professional societies and clinical research, with publications spanning pediatric eye conditions and care delivery. Her goal is to combine precise diagnostics with personalized treatment plans that safeguard sight in childhood and beyond.

Dr. Emily Shortridge is a pediatric ophthalmologist who also cares for adults with strabismus. As a District Medical Group physician at Valleywise Health, she provides comprehensive eye care for children and families, with a focus on accurate diagnosis, thoughtful education and practical treatment plans.Dr. Shortridge earned her medical degree from the University of Arizona College of Medicine–Phoenix. She completed an internal-medicine internship at St. Joseph’s Medical Center and an ophthalmology residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. She then pursued fellowship training in pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus at the Medical University of South Carolina. She maintains active membership in the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus.Whether a child needs care for a pediatric cataract or an adult seeks evaluation for strabismus, Dr. Shortridge partners with patients and families to achieve clear, comfortable vision in a welcoming environment.